China: Carving of Nan Ji Xian Weng (Immortal of the South Pole), depicting his role in the 16th Century Ming Dynasty novel Fengshen Yanyi ('Investiture of the Gods'). From Ping Sien Si Temple, Pasir Panjang Laut

Nan Ji Xian Weng was a character in the classic Ming Dynasty novel 'Fengshen Yanyi'. An immortal, also known as the Immortal of the South Pole or the Old Man of the South Pole, he aided and encouraged the legendary sage Jiang Ziya to accomplish his destiny and help form the Zhou Dynasty. In Taoism, he is the deification of Canopus, the brightest star in the Carina constellation, and symbolises happiness and longevity in Far Eastern culture.

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Anandajoti

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